News & Events

We’re thrilled to celebrate the Grand Opening of the Portneuf Valley Technical Education & Career Campus! This marks an exciting new chapter for our community—empowering students, supporting local industry, and shaping the future of hands-on education in Southeast Idaho. Thank you to everyone who made this day unforgettable!

Electives Fair

Thursday, January 30 - 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Thursday, February 6 - 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Location: 4200 Hawthorne Rd.

All PCSD 25 current high school learners and incoming freshman are welcome.

Eight local RNs gathered together for a day of training with the CNAs at PV-TEC. They bring over 200 years of combined experience, including backgrounds in Life Flight, ICU, and emergency rooms, as well as a special day of service from a Disneyland nurse.

We appreciate your dedication to our community and your willingness to share your expertise at PV-TEC!

The Portneuf Valley Technical Education and Career Campus (PV-TEC), part of the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 (PCSD 25), learned Wednesday that it has been awarded a $6.5 million grant from the Idaho Career Ready Students (ICRS) program. The grant represents the largest award during the second round of grants this year.

The Idaho Career Ready Students Program Council met Wednesday and approved 11 of 41 proposals for career technical program grants for schools and districts across Idaho. Created during the March 2023 legislative session, the Career Ready Students Program, HB267, carved out $45 million to incentivize “districts to create instruction that provides focused training to prepare students to meet the needs of local industry and workforce partners.”

PCSD 25 plans to use the $6.5 million grant to fund the expansion of the PV-TEC facility, which the district purchased in 2022. The grant was submitted on behalf of PV-TEC by Rhonda Naftz, the school’s administrator and Sue Pettit, the district’s Director of Secondary Education.
Naftz, who has been instrumental in executing the district’s vision for career technical education and career path programming, said, “I am incredibly grateful to the State of Idaho and the grant committee for embracing the PV-TEC vision. The ICRS grant award of $6.5 million will build classrooms and shops for learners to gain industry skills and knowledge while in high school. Our CTE students gain a community of like-minded learners and a place of belonging. This facility and the learning that takes place inside of it will offer opportunities for generations of Idahoans.”
According to a press release from the Idaho State Department of Education, the council favored PV-TEC because this was the only area in Idaho without a regional Career Technical Center. PV-TEC will serve students from communities that do not have facilities in their own area to access CTE training.

The ICRS program reflects a historic $45 million investment in Idaho CTE. Grants are designed to increase the capacity of CTE in middle and high schools (grades 7 – 12) across the state by incentivizing districts to create programs that prepare students to meet local and regional industry workforce needs. ICRS funds are separate from the Division of Career Technical Education and reduce reliance on federal funds for CTE programs.

The council received over $26.5 million in requests — 13 received for existing programs, 19 for new programs, and nine for capital project support (new facilities or significant improvements to existing facilities). The bulk of financial requests, $23.5 million, fell under support for capital projects.
 

The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 February C.A.K.E. Award, which stands for Character, Attitude, Kindness, and Encouragement, has been awarded to two outstanding learners. Congratulations to Bridgett Orgill and Gabe Pyne. Bridgett is a 5th-grade learner attending Chubbuck Elementary, and Gabe is a 12th-grade learner attending Century High School.

Bridgett was nominated by, Paige Warfield. In her nomination letter Ms. Warfield wrote, “Being the new kid at school is never easy. It’s even more difficult to come in the middle of the year when friendships are already established. One student recently joined our school, and in this short time, has demonstrated remarkable kindness and acceptance toward peers. One of their classmates has had an incredibly difficult year and has struggled to connect with others. Though still adjusting to a new environment, this student has made a huge effort to be compassionate and supportive of this peer. When discussing their transition, they mentioned feeling that this peer was 'misunderstood' and deserving of kindness.

I witnessed this firsthand during a counseling lesson when students were engaged in group work. The student was working with a peer who became agitated and used disrespectful language toward the group. While it would have been easy to ignore the situation or respond negatively, this student remained calm, acknowledged their peer’s concerns, and responded with gratitude for their input. As a result, the group was able to continue working productively. This ability to show empathy in the face of frustration displayed remarkable maturity and an understanding of separating behavior from the person underneath.”

Gabe was nominated by Ms. Katie Cooper. In her nomination letter, Ms. Cooper wrote, “I would like to nominate Gabe Pyne. My nomination is a little different because Gabe isn’t currently enrolled at AMS but over the last five years, he continues to have an impact on me and others. I am lucky to have had the opportunity to teach Gabe in my 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Lego Flex classes. During that period, Gabe made a huge impact on my life, as well as on his peers as I observed him interacting with others. Gabe is determined and hard-working. He is a dedicated learner and wrestler. He goes above and beyond to lift those who are struggling. An example of this is in 2021, I lost my son unexpectedly. I will forever have etched in my mind, Gabe’s compassion as he and his family supported me through this difficult time. That memory is forever cemented in my heart.

I have had the chance to watch Gabe with his teammates on the mat in wrestling over the last five years. His tenacity, grit, and resilience to get back up in spite of physical and mental challenges are awe-inspiring. He never settles for mediocrity and is continually working towards being his best self. He cheers on his teammates and boosts them up with his positivity and never-ending praise to endure, especially when things get hard. Gabe truly deserves to be considered for this award as he is a leader and an
example of true kindness towards others.”

Bridget and Gabe were recognized at the Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Our Partner for this award, Johnson Family McDonald's, provides each learner and their nominators with a gift card, along with $50 to purchase books for the school’s media center in the recipients’ names.

PCSD 25 believes a safe, supportive, caring and respectful environment is critical to student learning. The District Education Foundation, in partnership with McDonald’s, supports the Learner-of-the-Month C.A.K.E. Award to recognize students who show great character. The district recognizes one elementary learner and one secondary learner from October through May. Nominations for the C.A.K.E. Award are submitted by a teacher who has observed the nominee’s behavior, and are approved by the school’s principal.

Dear PCSD 25 Staff: We are excited to announce several new administrative appointments. Please join us in congratulating these individuals and wishing them well in their new roles.

Heidi Graham – Principal, Pocatello High School
Patrick Lloyd – Assistant Principal, Pocatello High School
Angela Stevens – Assistant Principal, Century High School

Heidi Graham – Principal, Pocatello High School

Heidi Graham, currently Academic Assistant Principal at Pocatello High School, will succeed Lisa Delonas, who is retiring after the 2024-2025 school year. Since joining PHS in 2016, Heidi has been a key member of the administrative team, working alongside Robert Parker, Lisa Delonas, and Holly Lacey.

She holds a bachelor's degree in Health Education from Brigham Young University-Idaho and a master’s in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University. Prior to PHS, she taught in the Blackfoot School District, where she served as PE Department Chair, Varsity Head Coach for Cross Country and Track & Field, and Co-President of the Blackfoot Education Association.

A mother of three PHS students (past and future graduates), Heidi has a deep personal connection to the school. Retiring Principal Lisa Delonas praised her leadership, stating, “Heidi has demonstrated unwavering capability and strength. She is respected by staff, students, and parents for her professionalism, fairness, and commitment to fostering a positive learning environment.”

Patrick Lloyd – Assistant Principal, Pocatello High School

Patrick Lloyd brings nearly two decades of experience in education, athletics, and leadership to PHS. A Pocatello resident since 1997, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 2003 and a Master’s in Athletic Administration in 2007. He began his teaching career at Eagle Rock Middle School before moving to Idaho Falls High School, where he taught Physical Education and Health.

In 2018, Patrick became Athletic Director at Idaho Falls High School, overseeing sports programs, budgets, and student-athlete development. His extensive coaching background in baseball and football shaped his leadership approach, emphasizing teamwork and discipline. He completed his Master’s in Educational Leadership in 2022 and began his administrative career as Assistant Principal at Century High School.

Now stepping into the role at Pocatello High School, Patrick looks forward to fostering strong relationships with students and staff while supporting a positive learning environment. “I’m excited to join the PHS team and contribute to the school’s culture of excellence,” he said.

Angela Stevens – Assistant Principal, Century High School

Angela Stevens joins Century High School after serving as principal of Washington Elementary for the past seven years. A graduate of Utah State University, she spent 22 years teaching K-5 in New Mexico, Nevada, and Idaho before earning a master’s in Educational Leadership from Idaho State University. Her leadership journey began as an assistant principal at Washington/Tendoy Elementary Schools.

Angela is eager to contribute to the Century High School community as an assistant principal, where all three of her children have attended. She understands the passion and commitment that the staff and teachers have for learning, and she is thrilled to be a part of the Diamondback team.

Angela extends her gratitude to the Washington Elementary students, staff, and parents for their support, sharing, "The Washington Wolves will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will cherish the memories we created together."

PCSD 25 Superintendent Dr. Douglas Howell emphasized the impact of these appointments, stating, As our district navigates change, we are asking these dedicated leaders to step into new roles, and we have full confidence in their ability to rise to the occasion. Their experience, passion, and commitment to our community’s learners will help shape the future of our schools. They each embody the spirit of More Together, and I know they will work collaboratively to support our learners, staff, and families in meaningful ways.

These administrative changes take effect on July 1, 2025.

The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District (PCSD 25) is proud to announce that it has achieved the highest graduation rate among the state’s 10 largest school districts. Last spring, an impressive 92.1% of PCSD 25 learners graduated on time, surpassing the statewide average of 82.3%.

This achievement is a testament to the district’s dedication to educational excellence and the success of its learners. PCSD 25 stands out among its large district peers for its continued commitment to providing learners with the tools, resources, and support they need to graduate.

PCSD 25’s continued success serves as a model for other districts in the state, proving that when schools, communities, and families work together, learners can achieve great things.

Cassie Atwood, PCSD 25’s curriculum coordinator, said, “The district's high graduation rate is a direct reflection of the unwavering dedication of our educators, staff, and support systems, who are committed to meeting each learner where they are.”

Atwood added, “The increase in our graduation rate highlights our holistic, hands-on approach to track and monitor each learner’s progress, while providing personalized support necessary for every child to not only thrive but also confidently take the next step toward a successful future.”

In addition to this achievement, PCSD 25 also leads Idaho's largest school districts in teacher retention, reaching a remarkable 91% retention rate for the past two years. This consistent retention rate reflects the district's ability to foster a supportive and collaborative environment for educators, ensuring that learners receive a high-quality education from a dedicated and experienced teaching staff.

"We are incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication demonstrated by our learners, staff, and community," said Dr. Douglas Howell, Superintendent of PCSD 25. "These achievements are the result of a collective effort to create an environment where students can thrive, and we will continue to focus on both academic excellence and teacher retention as essential components of our district's success."

Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 is the leading choice for local education, consistently demonstrating excellence in both learner success and educator satisfaction. In addition to leading the state in graduation and teacher retention rates,  PCSD 25 also offers innovative learning opportunities, including 25 Career-Technical Education pathways to prepare students for thriving careers, and above-average ISAT scores in English, math, and science. With a focus on comprehensive support for all learners, the district provides a well-rounded education that fosters both academic and personal growth.

For nearly 140 years, PCSD 25 has been committed to providing the highest quality education in a safe, supportive, and caring environment. Guided by our motto—Think MORE, Learn MORE, Be MORE Together—PCSD 25 is more than a school district; it is a community of schools, including parents, teachers, staff, educational partners, and community members, all dedicated to the power of learning, fostering strong relationships, and achieving greatness together to best serve the educational needs of local children.

Lookout Credit Union is excited to share the funds we've raised in John McCarthy's honor with Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 as we usher in a fresh school year. This year, the 20th Annual John McCarthy Memorial Golf Tournament broke all records by raising an incredible $33,000! These funds will once again be lovingly dedicated to the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 High School Extracurricular Activities Fund, all in cherished memory of John McCarthy.

This contribution means that each local high school will receive $11,000 to empower students to engage in a variety of extracurricular activities. A standing ovation is in order for our tournament's presenting sponsor, Cole Chevrolet and Cole Nissan Kia. Your steadfast partnership and commitment continue to be the driving force behind this annual success story. And to everyone who participated, thank you for making this year extra special.

#MoreTogether

Please join us in congratulating Cassie Atwood, who was selected as the new curriculum coordinator. Atwood will be stepping into the role following the retirement of Kathy Luras, who has dedicated many years of exemplary service to the district.

Cassie Atwood brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to educational excellence to her new position. She holds a Bachelor of Art in Secondary Education (2012) with a major in Political Science and minors in Geology and Social Studies, as well as a Master’s in Education Administration (2018). Atwood has served at Century High School for the past 12 years, where she spent six years in the classroom and six years as the Academic Assistant Principal.

Throughout her tenure at Century High School, Atwood has demonstrated extensive administrative expertise, particularly in leading the school’s special education program. She is passionate about the implementation of Visible Learning in classrooms and is a certified Restorative Practices Trainer through the International Institute of Restorative Practices. Her dedication to meeting the district’s curriculum vision ensures that every learner has equal access to high quality, research-based instructional materials aligned with the written curriculum and taught by skillful, highly effective teachers.

PCSD 25 Superintendent Dr. Douglas Howell expressed his enthusiasm for Atwood’s new role, stating, “We are excited to welcome Cassie Atwood as our new curriculum coordinator. Her extensive experience and passion for education make her an ideal fit for this role. We also express our gratitude to Kathy Luras for her outstanding contributions to the district’s curriculum over the years.”

Atwood shared her excitement about her new role, saying, “I am honored to take on the position of curriculum coordinator and continue the great work that has been done. I look forward to collaborating with the talented educators in our district to ensure every student receives the highest quality education.”

When not at work, Atwood enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and their dogs, riding UTVs, boating, and traveling.

The administrative change will go into effect on July 1, 2024.